In 1720, Floriano Francesconi opened a caffè in Venice’s Piazza San Marco… And it’s beautiful. Pretty astonishing that nearly three-hundred years later, the caffè still stands and is recognized as one of Venice’s gems.

I knew I’d at least have to sit inone of the oldest cafes in Europe, but I don’t think I quite prepared myself for what I was actually going to drink. I ordered just the Bicerin (coffee, chocolate, and cream) and was full when I left. That stuff is thick.

I’m a firm believer in the power of coffee, and where you drink it can be just as important as the caffeine itself. Today I’m not in a seventeenth century landmark. I’m somewhat buried in work, school, and various creative projects. I’m tired. It’s Monday. My apartment is definitely not emblazoned with golden cherubs, but it is perfectly okay. Just photos of this place calms me.

Where is your favorite place to have coffee? Favorite shop? Let me know.

When I asked my friend Kendall what her favorite thing about living in Prague was, she paused, then replied, “just the café culture. Being able to sit and write and read.” I nodded because that’s the best part about living in general.